Things to Know Before Refinishing Hardwood Floors

If you've got other construction or remodeling work happening, save the groundwork for the previous task.

During rainy periods and if the humidity is high, consider rescheduling the work. Wood may be a porous material, and when the old finish is stripped away, the ground will absorb moisture. If that happens or if it's just very humid, the new finish will take significantly longer to dry. Antique wide plank flooring North Carolina will beautify your flooring if you use it.

Since all the furniture is going to be removed, space is rendered unusable for several days. Even then, extra care is required to avoid scratching the floors. Plan on buying rugs (not the kind with rubberized bottoms) for all entries into the room, and keep your pet's nails trimmed.

Controlling dust is an important task. No matter what the contractor does to stop it from spilling into adjacent rooms, he or she won't be ready to control it entirely. Protect furniture and other items that you simply don't need ending up covered with a movie of dust. Also, keep in mind that the odor of polyurethane will linger for a few days. It is often remedied somewhat by leaving windows open and ventilating the space, but not if rain is predicted.

You don't have to become an expert on hardwood flooring. But it's knowing to learn enough that you simply can properly evaluate your contractor before, during, and after the work. Developing an eye fixed for well-installed and properly maintained floors makes it easier to identify people who aren't. Visit various showrooms.

Examine a portfolio of each contractor's work. Make sure that anyone you hire is properly insured and licensed, and that every important detail is written into the contract. Good planning and communication will make the job go more smoothly and help you avoid any bad surprises. Make sure you are given a quote instead of an estimate and be sure to ask about what kinds of unexpected costs can crop up.